TAMPA, Florida - For the first time in four years, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers avoided a home-opener televised blackout.

The team sold more than 85 percent of the seats at Raymond James Stadium before the NFL-required 72-hour deadline.

"It's great for business; it's great for the economy. It's great for the fans that can't get to the game ... the ones that it's too hot for them," said Walter Hill, owner of the sports bar Press Room on Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.

Last season, six of the team's eight homes games were blacked out, with the two exceptions being match-ups between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Saints.

"I'm just so excited. I can't wait. It's just coming out to places like this, like the Press Box, to come see the games," said Bucs fan Katherine Salinas.

Also this year, it was the first time fans had to deal with new rules that restrict what they can bring to the stadium. The changes have been publicized for months, and while most fans are following the rules, others are still trying to get into the stadium with larger items.

Each fan is allowed only one clear bag, no larger than 12x12 inches, and up to one clutch-style bag.